Rayil
December 11, 2012
An emerald fringe stole? An ivory sequined top? Right off the bat you may be wondering where you can purchase such items for yourself… but this time it’s your kids that are the lucky ducks.
Offering delightful options like tunics, pants, and dresses; Rayil was largely inspired by Arena Haati’s fond recollections of time spent as a child admiring her mother’s saris. Passionate about helping kids connect with India’s rich heritage, Haati owns a company called Gnaana (which does just that). Also having a love of the many different kinds of cotton and silk available across India (over 300!), creating a clothing line for kids was a natural extension of her interests. New Delhi based designer Moutushi Sarkar was the ideal choice for the project; having worked with the likes of Miss Selfridge and Urban Outfitters.
All of the clothes have elements of India’s rich fabrics and traditions. The tunics are playful and effervescent, the pants are gentlemanly while being perfectly age appropriate. The skirts are guaranteed to make little girls feel like princesses, and the scarves add a lush element to outfits for both boys and girls. This Spring 2013 line features cotton Khandi, Northern India’s Benarasi silk, and Central India’s Chanderi silk.
Sarkar and Haati have created a line definitely worth getting excited about. Excellently blending chic design with amazing fabrics, the Spring 2013 line from Rayil is something we’d all love to dress our little ones in! You can start pre-ordering now, however shipping doesn’t begin until February.
source: Rayil
by ST in Children, Fashion, India, Inspiration, Textiles
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Kahani
November 5, 2012
It seems like pieces with an classic and bohemian feel have always been popular choices for the home and wardrobe. I enjoy combining them with other elements to create an environment & personal style that is comfortable and chic. Unfortunately, it can be easy for companies and designers to take advantage of artists in other countries—especially when those artists are in need of income. It can be difficult at times to know how the designs you purchase were created, but I think it is important to try to do so.
Accessories and clothing line Kahani offers lovely, high quality shawls, scarves, bags, and jewelry. It also operates in a transparent way to encourage greater connection between customers and creators. Born as the result of the founder’s continued inspiration during and after several trips to various rural areas of India; Kahani’s pieces are handcrafted and extremely covetable. I’m currently eyeing this Zara Scarf and these delicate silver hoop earrings.
One of my favorite things about Kahani is the “Meet the Artisans” section on their website. Not only can you see who is creating elements of Kahani items; it is also incredibly interesting to read a bit about the techniques and traditions behind block printing, handloom weaving, and bandhani. Plus–the photos from the Kahani team’s various adventures are stunning and may give you a bit of the travel itch.
Explore more Kahani pieces on their website here, and give them a like on Facebook too!
source: Kahani
by ST in Accessories, Fashion, Gifts, Global, Handmade, India, Inspiration, Textiles Facebook this Tweet this Email this- 0 Comments
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Saffron Hue
November 2, 2012
I’ve posted some fantastic finds lately… but ideas for things I could get the babies continue to swirl around my mind. Moms out there, you know what I’m talking about. Well, a little bird let me know about the earth friendly line of baby products Saffron Hue, and now I get to share it with you. (Plus, extra points for a little bit of rhyming?)
Even if you’re not currently shopping for lil’ baby gifts, take a peek—the sweet photos will definitely put a smile on your face.
Saffron Hue’s bibs, swaddles, snuggle bags, quilts, and blankets are a wonderful option in the world of green baby products. Possibly irritating dyes and synthetic materials? You won’t find any in the Saffron Hue line. The items are all 100% cotton, and the adorable and energetic designs are printed with Azo free dyes. Since the designs are created through time-honored Indian block printing, you get uniqueness and quality.
Now that you’ve gotten the important details about the safe and natural aspects of Saffron Hue’s products, can we talk about how adorable they are? The snuggle bags are cute and cozy, and the swaddle sets look so very comforting for little ones. The blankets/quilts look oh so soft! All the designs are quite stylish too—ones you’ll want to show off.
Everything is really reasonably priced: $29 for a burp cloth set , $75 for a quilt (both available in various color combinations). Now that’s something I can definitely get on board with.
source: Saffron Hue
by ST in Accessories, Children, ECO, Gifts, Handmade, India, Textiles Facebook this Tweet this Email this- 0 Comments
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Mayasri
October 25, 2012
When I first learned of Mayasri and their crib sheet sets, I immediately connected. Sri Kumar began Mayasri after feeling frustrated at the lack of affordable and unique sheet sets available for babies; something I’m familiar with.
Blues and pinks are fantastic, so are birds, kittens, etc. I’m certainly not knocking these traditional baby colors and patterns. But, sometimes variation is nice, and that is why Mayasri’s vibrant colors and patterns are a welcome change of pace. I’m a big fan of the celebratory colors used in Mayasri’s designs—turquoise, orange, and fuchsia (while still giving the option of traditional blue and pink). Currently there are two different designs: paisley and flower. They’re completely chic while maintaining a traditional flair.
All of the Mayasri crib sets are bumper less, as studies have indicated that bumpers can increase the odds of SIDS. Additionally, all items are made with 100% cotton, non-toxic dyes, following CPSIA baby bedding guidelines. So, you can rest assured that your little one is sleeping comfortably and safely.
As even those who have yet to do so know… having a baby is expensive. Mayasri’s sheet sets are pretty affordable, at less than $200 for the fitted sheet, bed-skirt, and quilt (which is hand stitched in India). And note: these would also make a fantastic gift for an upcoming baby shower.
Make sure to check in on the website, as Mayasri is expanding their collection and will have new colors and designs available soon!
source: Mayasri
by ST in Accessories, Children, Handmade, Home Decor, Textiles Facebook this Tweet this Email this- 0 Comments
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Payal Singhal
October 24, 2012
[UPDATE: Payal will be showcasing her festive, bridal and kids line on Friday, November 9th at The Dream Hotel in New York. Please see invitation below.]
Designer Payal Singhal has become quite synonymous with gorgeous clothes. Winning her first design award at the young age of 15, she has released several collections of lovely, elegant (and completely wearable!) pieces. Her new collection India in Color continues her reputation of creative, pleasing silhouettes and materials.
Extraordinary, ethereal, enchanting … the pieces in the India in Color collection are tantalizing and I think it is safe to say that I want them all. A girl can dream, can’t she?
I mean, what woman isn’t looking for a new fashionable item to spruce up her wardrobe, especially with party season now upon us? Payal Singhal’s newest collection provides women with wonderfully festive options. I think these pieces in the collection are pretty ideal for those that want to impress while still showcasing elements of their own personality.
I particularly like the incorporation in this collection of not only the crystal encrusted necklines/bodices/sleeves, etc., but also lively colors like cobalt, lime, and fuchsia. It spruces up celebratory wear in a fun and fresh manner—right up my alley.
India in Color seems to be presenting itself in perfect timing, as a favorite celebration of many. It’s Diwali season!
What do you have planned for your celebrations this year?
source: Payal Singhal and Times of India
by ST in Fashion, Global, India, Inspiration, Textiles, Wedding Facebook this Tweet this Email this- 0 Comments
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